Jackfruit is not liked by many because of its smelly nature. However, this heavy fruit has a number of health benefits and here are 8 of them.

By: Shubham Ghosh

Published: Monday, November 7, 2016, 17:30 [IST]

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Jackfruit is not liked by many because of its smelly nature; but there is no denying the fact that this heavy fruit (literally a heavy-looking one) has several benefits to offer to our health.

This 'armoured' fruit has an extremely sweet interior and supplies an all-round nutrition including vitamins A, B6, C, potassium, copper, fibre, etc. It also has a low content of saturated fat and cholesterol.

Here are top 10 health benefits that jackfruit offers to us when had regularly:

1. Prevention Of Cancer Cell Formation:

Jackfruit contains a big amount of three specific phytonutrients like lignans, isoflavones and saponins, each of which has strong anti-cancer benefits. While saponins are known to prevent colon cancer and leukaemia, lignans and isoflavones help in treating endometrial cancer.

2. Betters Eye Health:

The high concentration of vitamin A in jackfruit minimises the risk of eye disorders like macular degeneration. Eating jackfruit regularly protects the cornea and also fights infection.

3. Gives Energy:

The carbohydrate and vitamin B in jackfruit make it a powerful source of energy. Vitamins B1 and B2 convert the carbs provided by the same fruit into energy; and hence jackfruit has a unique combination as an energy-supplying fruit. The low glycaemic index also doesn't cause any rise in the blood sugar level.

4. Betters The Digestive System:

Those who have problems in digesting smoothly, the fibre content in jackfruit helps their case to an effective extent. Per 100 grams of jackfruit about 15 grams of fibre is comprised in it. The high percentage of insoluble fibre in jackfruit sees it pass through the gastrointestinal tract quite fast, hence easing constipation.

5. Improves Skin:

Consumption of jackfruit fights skin wrinkles and helps in giving the skin a glowing complexion, thanks to the fruit's antioxidants that neutralise the harmful free radicals. Eating jackfruit or applying jackfruit seed powder helps you beat the signs of ageing.

6. Reduces Weight:

The high fibre content in jackfruit helps in detoxifying our body. Besides, the fruit is low in fat and doesn't lead to the rise in blood sugar. Jackfruit makes us feel full and avoid indisciplined eating.

7. Cures Anxiety:

The copper in jackfruit is more readily absorbed by our body and that in turn helps us in avoiding problems like anxiety, panic and sleeplessness, all of which are caused by copper deficiency.

8. Improves Memory:

Regular consumption of jackfruit helps in improving our cognitive function. Antioxidants in jackfruit help in negating the free radicals that cause damage to the brain cells, resulting in reduced cognitive capacity. It is thus very important to eat jackfruit regularly.